Occupational Therapist, OT

Job Details: Job Location: Anberry Post Acute - Merced, CA 95348, Salary Range: $60.00 - $70.00 Hourly, Join KALESTA HEALTHCARE GROUP and make a meaningful impact by providing high-quality, compassionate rehabilitation care to residents in our skilled nursing facility. This is an excellent opportunity for a graduating student, new graduate, or experienced Occupational Therapist with Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) experience looking to build or continue a rewarding career in Occupational Therapy while working closely with residents, families, caregivers, and an interdisciplinary healthcare team.

Direct Hiring in Skilled Nursing Facilities across Northern California: Merced

• Pay ranges may vary depending on the location.
• $2,500 Retention Bonus — For full-time positions in California.
• $2,500 Relocation Bonus — Available for Modesto, Manteca, Los Banos, Merced, and Chico facilities. Typically eligible after 90 days.
• $5,000 Student Loan Repayment — Per calendar year.
• $2,500 Referral Bonus
• $500 Annual License Renewal Bonus — Covers license renewal, CPR, and CEU expenses per calendar year.
• H-1B Sponsorship / H-1B Transfer Assistance — Available for eligible full-time employees

The Occupational Therapist (OT) provides and directs all aspects of quality patient care, including evaluation and treatment, treatment planning, goal setting, family education, and documentation according to organizational guidelines, professional standards, and community needs. The OT serves as a patient and rehabilitation advocate while collaborating with patients, families, caregivers, facility staff, and other members of the interdisciplinary team.

Reporting: This position reports directly to the Facility Rehab Director.

Why This Role Matters

• Evaluate patients according to physician orders, payer authorization, and facility guidelines
• Develop individualized treatment plans based on patient needs and functional goals
• Provide appropriate occupational therapy interventions to achieve the best functional outcomes
• Establish treatment goals and monitor patient progress
• Screen individuals who may benefit from therapeutic intervention
• Provide patient and family education regarding treatment plans, progress, and functional outcomes
• Communicate patient status and needs with patients, families, caregivers, and the interdisciplinary team
• Complete accurate and timely evaluations, daily progress notes, summaries, and required documentation
• Enter patient and treatment information accurately into EMR and rehabilitation systems
• Direct and supervise assistants, rehab aides, and students in accordance with applicable state and federal guidelines
• Participate in interdisciplinary collaboration, co-treatment, protocols, and rehabilitation programs
• Make appropriate referrals to other members of the rehabilitation team
• Participate in in-service training, continuing education, and professional development
• Follow all facility safety, infection control, HIPAA, and patient safety procedures
• Maintain required state licensure, certification, and credentials
• Submit billing and other required documentation in a timely manner
• Participate in quality assurance, customer service, department operations, and program development

Qualifications: What We’re Looking For

Education and License

• Currently completing or recently graduated from an approved Occupational Therapy program
• Graduating students and new graduates are encouraged to apply
• Must have an active California Occupational Therapist (OT) license
• CPR certification required; candidates who do not yet have CPR certification may obtain it prior to or during the onboarding process
• Must be in good standing with applicable regulatory agencies and licensing boards

Experience

• Experience working in a Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF)
• No prior skilled nursing facility experience required for graduating students and new graduates
• Clinical experience through graduate internships, externships, or clinical placements
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities simultaneously

Qualifications & Skills

• Strong clinical foundation in Occupational Therapy
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Compassionate and empathetic approach to patient care
• Strong documentation and organizational skills
• Proficiency with EMR and rehabilitation systems or willingness to learn
• Ability to work effectively as part of an interdisciplinary team
• Strong desire to learn, grow, and build a career in skilled nursing rehabilitation
• Professional presentation and conduct
• Commitment to continuing education and professional development

Physical & Working Conditions

• Skilled Nursing Facility environment
• Ability to move intermittently throughout the workday
• Ability to sit and walk for extended periods
• Ability to bend, squat, push, stoop, and pull as required for resident care
• Ability to lift and move up to 100 pounds with assistance according to resident needs
• Potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens, chemicals, fumes, and odors
• Ability to manage the physical, mental, and emotional demands associated with skilled nursing care